College admissions directors paying more attention to money

Prospective students’ ability to pay tuition and fees is becoming an increasingly-important factor in college admissions decisions, according to a survey of top admissions officials by Inside Higher Education.

More than 34 percent of respondents said their institutions are focusing more attention on attracting students who can pay full tuition, according to the survey. While only 10 percent said full-pay students admitted to their schools have lower grades and test scores than others, 92 percent said they agree with the practice.

Officials at many public institutions also say their top admissions strategy over the next few years will be recruiting out-of-state students, who typically pay higher tuition, according to the survey.